History of the AMC Javelin AMX

If the making of a classic car could be considered a recipe, you’d need the following ingredients to create the AMC Javelin AMX:

• Merger between two companies
• AMX prototype #1
• AMX prototype #2
• Visions of a vehicle for the road and the racetrack

Then, you’d mix those ingredients together to transform a dream into reality.

Creation of American Motors Corporation

The story really begins in 1954, when the American Motors Corporation (AMC) was formed after the Hudson Motor Car Company merged with Nash-Kelvinator Corporation. Moving forward by a dozen years, AMC had created two different concept cars, spurred on when Ford Motor Company manufactured the Mustang. AMC realized how they, too, needed a pony car.

These two concept cars served as the inspiration for the Javelin’s original design, and the 1968 model debuted in August 1967, available for sale in September at around $2,500. This beauty was a two-door hardtop with either a 232 or 290 cubic inch front engine with a two-barrelled, V8 carburetor.

Early adopters who were ready to go all-in could select a premium SST model, with an optional 343 cubic inch engine available. Safety was not ignored, however, with the manufacturer complying with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) standards. These included three-point seat belts, front seats with headrests, and exterior side marker lights, among other safety features.

Check out this link to see some of the parts we can offer for many AMC applications. 

AMC Javelin as a Racing Vehicle

AMC entered the Javelin into Trans-Am Series racing in 1968 and finished all but one race. Engine troubles during that particular race prevented them from having a year where they always crossed the finish line.

The following year, some of the workers assigned to the racing program were less experienced. This nearly disqualified them from competition and, even when permitted to race, they were required to start last.

When the 1969 vehicle caught up to others in the race, officials wanted to inspect the Javelin’s engine, but the car had already left the track. This, as you might imagine, led to plenty of controversy, although later years included exciting racing events with the Javelin.

AMC Javelin Production Years

The Javelin’s model years were from 1968-1970 (first generation) and from 1971-1974 (second generation). Although only a two-seater in the earlier years, there was a reasonable amount of legroom for passengers and the trunk capacity was decent at 10 cubic feet.

The interior was carpeted, with the SST model even having reclining front seats. The SST also had better-than-average handling because of its suspension.

Eye candy features included honeycomb grilles that were recessed and headlamps that were outboard mounted. Windshields were sloped to add that desired sporty appeal. As for get-up-and-go, Concept Carz reported the car’s capability to go from zero to 60 in just seven seconds. Muscle car, anyone?

1960s AMC Javelin

In 1969, changes were minor and largely cosmetic, in both its interior and exterior. The following year, though, the Javelin debuted with a startling new front-end design, with full width tail lamps in the rear. Windshields were made from Corning’s safety glass, an advancement that allowed them to be both thinner and lighter than in the past.

1970s AMC Javelin

Engine options became more powerful in 1970, and there continued to be innovations in the interior design. As just one example, the steering wheel was a two-spoke model with a rim blow horn.

In 1971, the beginning of the second-generation models debuted. Think longer and lower. Think wider and heavier. Fenders were sculpted to fit racing tires and the dashboard was asymmetrical. And here’s a big change: The Javelin AMX became quite a sporty four-seater.

In 1972, the AMC Javelin saw record sales, even when pony car sales, overall, were declining. This, at least in part, was because AMC offered a revolutionary (for the time) warranty where they would fix all problems with the vehicle for one year or 12,000 miles, except for the tires.

American Motor Company Offered Incentives with the Javelin

Besides receiving the Buyer Protection Plan, owners would also get a toll-free number to schedule the repairs and a loaner car if repairs took more than one day. In 1972 and 1973, renowned fashion designer Pierre Cardin created a stunning striped interior for the Javelin AMX.

Unfortunately, although sales were decent in 1974, this would be the last year for this now-classic car.

AMC Javelin Parts for Sale

If you’re looking for classic Javelin car parts, Collectors Auto Supply makes it easy to search by year. If you do not see what you need, contact us, we’ll do our best to help you locate what you are after! 

Finding exactly the right AMC Javelin restoration parts can be challenging, which is why our founder decided to create a company that helps you do exactly that. Restoring a classic car is a special project that brings joy to millions of people every year, so we’re proud to help make that a reality.

The Javelin is a car with a rich history. Unfortunately, that can often make it difficult to find the parts you need to keep it in top shape. This is why it’s vital that you find a reliable supplier who can help you find everything you need.

Restore Your Classic AMC Javelin with Collectors Auto Supply

At Collectors Auto Supply, we offer the automobile restoration supplies you need, including classic car parts for the vehicles you cherish. This includes the legendary Javelin from American Motors Corporation.

More than just an expansive catalog of classic restoration parts, we also offer the decades of experience we have in sourcing, procuring, and installing these difficult-to-find components. Our team is staffed with passionate collaborators who enjoy bringing restoration projects to life.

We understand that it can be difficult, overwhelming, or intimidating to find the products you need to make your dream restoration car a reality. If you want more information about the best parts for restoring your vintage AMC Javelin, reach out to our team today.